Get Creative with Crust

Once you realize that pie dough isn't the only option for the foundation of your pie, the number of potential crust-and-filling combos multiplies endlessly. The hardest part (of course) is deciding what pairing to choose. Here are five pies to get you started.

Photography by Renee Comet

Banana Cream Pie with Coconut Crust

Play up the tropical flavor of banana cream pie with this easy press-in crust that uses coconut instead of graham crackers. Bonus: It's gluten-free.

Easy Berries-and-Cream Pie

You'll think the crust for this super-simple pie is a mistake, but trust us. Letting the puff pastry rise and then gently patting it down makes for an easy instant crust. Layer your favorite fruit preserves or jam under the creamy filling for an extra sweet surprise.

Key Lime Pie with Butter Cracker Crust

We were pleasantly surprised that salty, buttery crackers worked just as well as graham crackers for this Floridian custard pie. This crust would also take nicely to a filling of peanut butter mousse or pudding.